Executive Publisher, Commercial Fiction, Adult Editorial

Simon & Schuster, Inc.; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global publishing company in London seeks an Executive Publisher for their fiction division. The role requires a strategic leader with senior-level experience in fiction publishing, responsible for setting the publishing program's direction and overseeing an editorial team. Candidates should have a proven track record in acquiring bestselling titles, excellent communication skills, and a passion for storytelling. This position offers opportunities for career advancement and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior-level experience in fiction publishing is required.
• Proven track record of acquiring bestselling and award-winning titles.
• Comprehensive understanding of the publishing industry and market trends.

Responsibilities

• Set the strategic direction of the publishing program.
• Oversee a talented editorial team.
• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams for impactful campaigns.

Skills

Strong commercial acumen, including data analysis and market insights

Excellent negotiation and communication skills

Ability to lead strategic projects and inspire others

Experience managing author and series brands

Passion for publishing and storytelling

Job description

Posted Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. Expires Monday, July 7, 2025 at 10:59 p.m.

Company

Simon & Schuster, a global leader in general interest publishing, is dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for readers of all ages, in all formats-printed, digital, and audio. Its roster includes many renowned authors and winners of prestigious literary awards. It encompasses various imprints such as Simon & Schuster, Scribner, Atria Books, Gallery Books, Adams Media, Avid Reader Press, and others, reaching audiences in over 200 countries. For more information, visit our website.

The Job Profile

Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Executive Publisher, Commercial Fiction, Adult Editorial will lead our fiction publishing division. This senior role requires a strategic leader with a successful record in acquiring bestselling fiction, nurturing talent, and achieving market-leading results.

The Job Role

The successful candidate will set the strategic direction of our publishing program, oversee a talented editorial team, utilize data-driven acquisition strategies, and promote outstanding fiction across genres. They will build strong relationships with authors and agents, offering career guidance and strategic support. Collaborating with Sales and Marketing & Publicity teams, they will execute impactful campaigns to maximize commercial success. Managing budgets, setting pricing strategies, and ensuring profitability through informed market decisions will also be key responsibilities.

The Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have extensive senior-level experience in fiction publishing, demonstrating strategic leadership, team management, negotiation, and communication skills. A proven track record of acquiring bestselling and award-winning titles, along with a passion for storytelling and a comprehensive understanding of the publishing industry, market trends, and distribution channels, is essential.

• Strong commercial acumen, including data analysis and market insights
• Experience managing author and series brands
• Ability to lead strategic projects and inspire others
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Passion for publishing and storytelling
• Experience in navigating the publishing industry, markets, and distribution channels

Please apply by attaching your CV and cover letter, including your current salary and expectations.

Simon & Schuster UK is committed to equal opportunity employment. We value diversity and inclusion in our workplace and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Hired candidates will be employed by Simon & Schuster UK Ltd and will be subject to company policies and benefits.